Erik Kyle Myhran

Erik Myhran, age 60, passed away on July 10th of 2023 at his home in Orono, Minnesota. He lived his life well. His parents knew him as a caring and dedicated son. His wife knew him as an attentive and adoring husband. His children knew him as a loving and adventurous father. His grandson knew him as a devoted and tender Papa. And so many others knew him as an authentic and trusting friend.

Erik saw the world for what it is: full of beauty, but also flawed.

He embraced the beauty in every way that he could. When he found joy in something, he was always eager to share it – an awe-inspiring place, a good joke, a riveting song, a double black diamond, a big party, a new friend. His enthusiasm for these sorts of things was delightful, and his loved ones (and strangers) often found it impossible not to share in that delight.

He didn’t ignore the flaws, though. He would often engage his three boys, from a young age, on how the world could someday be better. In doing so, he demonstrated to them that goodness isn’t inherent in anything. It takes hard work and commitment, and it’s a struggle that ought to take place openly and together.

In June of last year, Erik was diagnosed with brain cancer. As devastating as this was, each of his remaining days was marked with gratitude and a genuine appreciation for the things that brought him, and all of us, joy and peace. “Don’t wait” became the mantra that he shared:

Don’t wait to say “I love you.” Don’t wait to open your mind. Don’t wait to be happy. Don’t wait to do good. Don’t wait to give grace. Don’t wait to forgive, even when not asked. Don’t wait to make fun of yourself. Don’t wait to ask for forgiveness. Don’t wait to assume your enemy is a good person. Don’t wait to right your wrongs. Don’t wait to get into therapy. Don’t wait to rebuild the broken. Don’t wait to let yourself be healed. Don’t wait to get out of your own way. Don’t wait to focus on your obligations, not your rights. Don’t wait to appreciate the small things. Don’t wait to live a life of gratitude. Don’t wait to extend a kind word to the crabby. Don’t wait to make chicken salad out of chicken poop. Don’t wait to create your own Camp Myhran.

Erik lived by these words, even before he had them. Everyone who knew him can probably think back to a moment when he demonstrated one of these tenants in a way that stuck with them – and his precious example of goodness will be sorely missed. But our lives are so much richer for having had the honor of giving him love, and receiving it twice over. Thank you, Erik.

Erik Myhran was preceded in death by his parents, Dean and Mavis, and brother, Brooks. He is survived by his wife, Teri; sons, Austin (Libby), Bennett (Jennifer), and Chase (Marisa); grandson, Corky; brother, Anders (Lynn); best friend Andy; and many in-laws, nieces, nephews, and friends.

A memorial service will be held on July 28th at 2:00 p.m. at Wayzata Community Church, 125 East Wayzata Boulevard, Wayzata with visitation one hour prior.  At Erik’s request, donations to Interfaith Outreach are strongly preferred in lieu of flowers.

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